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Best Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits

Find nonprofit grants in Kentucky, including opportunities in Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green. Updated listings for 501(c)(3) organizations statewide.

9,000+

Available grants

$2.62B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

9,000+ grants
$2.62B total
$5K median

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9,273 Results based on applied filters

Vadon Foundation Grant

Vadon Foundation
Private
Canada, United States
Unspecified amount
The Vadon Foundation Grant supports innovative, community-based initiatives aimed at sustaining healthy indigenous nations. By empowering visionary changemakers, the foundation addresses multi-generational challenges through focused programming in areas like language revitalization, community leadership, and addressing crises such as food insecurity. The foundation seeks to foster self-determination and sustainability within native communities, ensuring that future generations can thrive culturally and socially.
Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services

.ORG Impact Awards

Public Interest Registry
Private
Afghanistan, Albania +189 more
Up to US $50,000
The .ORG Impact Awards, organized by the Public Interest Registry, honor individuals and organizations connected to .ORG domains for their impactful contributions in areas such as health, education, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Participants can receive up to $50,000 for their chosen non-profit and gain visibility through various promotional platforms. This initiative not only recognizes excellence but also fosters community support and encourages innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.
Educational Access & Equity Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Health Care Access & Delivery +7 more

Smart Growth America: Community Connectors Grant Program

Smart Growth America
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $25,000
The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.
Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure Public Infrastructure Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems +1 more

NEI Institutional Mentored Physician Scientist Award (K12 Clinical Trial Optional) (348702)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $55,000
The NEI Institutional Mentored Physician Scientist Award (K12 Clinical Trial Optional) aims to foster innovative research career development for clinically trained vision scientists. This funding opportunity encourages institutions to develop programs that prepare scholars for independent research careers, particularly in minimal risk clinical trials. Emphasis is placed on recruiting underrepresented groups in research, ensuring a diverse pool of clinician investigators engaged in vision research.
Medical Education & Professional Training Vision Impairment Care & Services Eye Diseases & Disorders

Grief Reach: Changemaker Supported Community Expansion Cycle - up to $110,000

National Alliance for Children's Grief (NACG)
Private
United States
Up to US $110,000
The Grief Reach: Changemaker Supported Community Expansion Cycle offers up to $110,000 to enhance community programs for grieving children. Organizations are encouraged to innovate and expand their services to better meet community needs. The initiative, in partnership with the Judi’s House/JAG Institute, emphasizes training and resources for effective program evaluation over a three-year period, culminating in impactful community expansion projects.
Children’s Mental Health Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Family Services +1 more

TruStage Foundation Grants and Sponsorships

TruStage Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The TruStage Foundation focuses on fostering economic mobility through education and housing initiatives. By supporting K-12 literacy, mentoring, and affordable housing projects, the foundation aims to uplift marginalized communities. With a commitment to addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, TruStage seeks to empower individuals and families to build a brighter future. Their funding is directed towards impactful programs that align with their mission, while avoiding causes that do not meet their criteria for economic mobility.
Literacy Tutoring & Mentoring Equitable & Affordable Housing +3 more

Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation: Community Leadership Fund Grant

Felix E Martin Jr Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation Community Leadership Fund provides essential support for leadership development in Muhlenberg County, KY. It aims to empower individuals and groups seeking innovative solutions to local challenges. Eligible applicants include those pursuing personal leadership growth or researching effective community strategies. The fund underscores inclusivity, welcoming diverse applicants without discrimination. This initiative fosters a vibrant community by equipping leaders with the resources needed to effect positive change.
All fields of work Civic Affairs Art & Culture +1 more

TFish Fund Grant

TFish Fund
Private
Eastern Asia, United States
Up to US $10,000
The TFish Fund Grant aims to alleviate poverty in East Asia by empowering small but impactful NGOs to achieve sustainability and transparency. Founded in 2011, the Transparent Fish Fund partners with select organizations that focus on poverty alleviation. By providing financial aid, capacity building, and promoting accountability, the fund bridges the gap between Western donors and local NGOs, fostering a philanthropic spirit while addressing the complex social issues faced in the region.
Asian American Services

Early Stage Investigator HIV/AIDS Research Using Nonhuman Primate (NHP) Models (R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (348960)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $400,000
This funding opportunity aims to support Early Stage Investigators (ESIs) in conducting preclinical HIV/AIDS research using Nonhuman Primate (NHP) models. Eligible applicants must have at least two years of postdoctoral experience and be within ten years of their terminal degree. The initiative aligns with the NIH Strategic Plan for HIV and HIV-Related Research, targeting the reduction of HIV incidence, development of therapies, and advancement in research areas related to HIV.
HIV / AIDS

Research Experiences for Undergraduates (348985)

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
US $5,000 - US $500,000
The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), promotes active research participation among undergraduate students across various research areas. It supports two mechanisms: REU Sites, which engage multiple students in ongoing research, and REU Supplements, which enhance existing NSF-funded projects. Participants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents, and each REU opportunity has its unique application process.
Geoinformatics & Geospatial Sciences Biology Physics +14 more

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy: Trail Grants

Rails To Trails Conservancy
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $25,000

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) Trail Grants

RTC’s Trail Grants are building strong foundations in communities for equitable trail network development and activation—investing in transformative projects and programs that create more access to trails for more people across the country.  

Our grants support organizations at all levels—from local and national nonprofits to public agencies—with a focus on community-based leadership, engagement and long-term impact.  

Since 2008, RTC has provided over $3.7 million in grant funding to more than 280 organizations seeking to create, connect and maintain the nation’s trails, building vibrant trail networks that connect neighborhoods and regions, and make it possible for America to walk, bike and be active outside.

Trail Creation & Maintenance Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure

Trail Accelerator Grants- Spring Cycle Planning and Design

International Mountain Bicycling Association
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $30,000
The Trail Accelerator Grants aim to enhance mountain bike trail communities by providing essential planning and design services. With funding between $10,000 to $30,000, these grants support local organizations in creating sustainable trail systems. The initiative encourages projects that increase access and promote community engagement, particularly focusing on diversity and inclusion. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to match funds, ensuring collaborative efforts to improve trail networks and experiences for all riders.
Trail Creation & Maintenance Biking Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure

Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
Up to US $190,000
The Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF) aim to support emerging leaders in mathematics and statistics. These fellowships enhance participants' research environments, ensuring significant scientific development. Awardees can choose between a Research Fellowship or a Research Instructorship, with funding available for research across various mathematical and statistical disciplines. Proposals are submitted directly to the NSF, and fellows must affiliate with eligible institutions or organizations.
Mathematics

Mathematical Sciences Research Institutes (349343)

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
US $1,500,000 - US $6,500,000
The Mathematical Sciences Research Institutes, supported by the National Science Foundation, serve as critical national resources aimed at advancing research in mathematics and statistics. These institutes facilitate the discovery and dissemination of knowledge while enhancing connections with related fields. Their activities attract top mathematical minds to tackle pressing problems and engage a diverse array of U.S.-based researchers, ultimately bolstering the impact of mathematical sciences across various disciplines.
Mathematics

Founders Project Fulfillment Grant

Children's Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA)
Private
United States
US $30,000
The Founders Project Fulfillment Grant, offered by the Children's Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA), is dedicated to supporting 501(c)(3) IRS-certified theatres with a strong commitment to artistic excellence for young audiences. Eligible organizations must have a minimum operating budget of $1,000,000 and a proven track record of diversity in leadership, making this grant a vital resource for fostering inclusive theatre experiences for children and families.
Theater Youth Involvement in the Arts Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Ash Grove Charitable Foundation Grant

Ash Grove Charitable Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $25,000
The Ash Grove Charitable Foundation Grant supports public charities with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on capital projects that enhance community life in states where Ash Grove operates. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, education, and human services, the Foundation prioritizes funding for renovation and construction projects. Grants typically reach up to $25,000, aiming to foster better living standards and support local initiatives that are vital for community growth and resilience.
Community Services

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants

Bell's Brewery, Inc.
Corporate
District of Columbia, United States
US $500 - US $5,000
Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.
Water Resource Management Environmental Stewardship Climate Change Resilience & Equity +3 more

Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research (PACER)

US DOD: Dept. of the Air Force, Materiel Command
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research (PACER) program is a 20-year Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) by the US Air Force aimed at advancing innovative aerospace technologies. This initiative encourages white papers and proposals for research and development to enhance technology readiness levels. It is designed to provide the warfighter with a decisive advantage through transformative technology solutions. Multiple awards are anticipated, allowing for a range of project durations and funding values.
Aerospace Engineering

The Solidarity Fund Grant

Global Fund for Women
Private
Africa, Armenia +22 more
Unspecified amount
The Solidarity Fund Grant, part of the Black Feminist Fund, aims to empower Black feminist movements by providing essential resources. Acknowledging the historical underfunding of these movements, the fund supports groups led by Black women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals. It focuses on solidarity efforts that foster collaboration and joint campaigns, enabling activists to drive social change. This initiative is crucial for advancing justice, self-determination, and equity within communities, ensuring that Black feminist visions are amplified and sustained.
Black American Culture & Heritage Women's Rights & Equality Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Confluence Program Grants

Conservation Alliance
Private
Canada, United States
US $140,000
The Confluence Grant Program, initiated by the Conservation Alliance in 2021, aims to strengthen partnerships with historically racially excluded groups. It awards four grants of $100,000 over two years to support projects that protect or restore natural places. The program emphasizes building meaningful relationships and sharing resources, ensuring that funded projects center on solutions led by impacted communities. By fostering collaboration and addressing funding gaps, the program enhances the conservation landscape for diverse voices.
Environmental Justice & Advocacy Environmental Conservation Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage +3 more

ACLS Digital Justice Seed Grants

American Council of Learned Societies
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The ACLS Digital Justice Seed Grants support projects that enhance equity and justice in digital scholarship, particularly focusing on marginalized communities. Funded by The Mellon Foundation, these grants foster innovative methodologies and resource sharing across disciplines. By promoting inclusivity in digital humanities, the program empowers scholars to engage with under-studied materials and develop sustainable practices, ensuring broader access to digital tools and expertise for impactful research initiatives.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Social Justice / Human Rights Data Science & Digital Information Systems +2 more

ACLS Digital Justice Development Grants

American Council of Learned Societies
Association/Society
United States
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The ACLS Digital Justice Development Grants, funded by The Mellon Foundation, aim to enhance justice and equity in digital scholarly practice. These grants support projects that engage with historically marginalized communities, including people of color and those with disabilities. By providing resources and coaching for sustainable project development, the program promotes inclusion in the digital humanities, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to shaping digital knowledge and cultural heritage.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Social Justice / Human Rights Data Science & Digital Information Systems +2 more

JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies

Japan Foundation, New York
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides funding of up to $5,000 for U.S.-based institutions with 501(c)(3) status to enhance understanding of Japan through academic projects. Eligible projects include conferences, lectures, and symposia, whether in-person or virtual. The grant covers expenses such as honoraria, travel, accommodation, and research materials. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and submission is required at least three months prior to the project start date.
Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program

Japan Foundation, New York
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.
Disaster Preparedness Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Epidemiology & Public Health +17 more

Grant for Grassroots Exchange: U.S.-Japan Community Networking

Japan Foundation, New York
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Grant for U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program aims to foster cultural exchange between the U.S. and Japan by funding grassroots programming initiatives. Eligible projects must include at least ten events within a 12-month period, focusing on various Japan-related topics. The grant, offering up to $30,000, prioritizes innovative outreach and sustainability. Applications are welcome from U.S. universities and nonprofit organizations that promote cultural exchange, ensuring diverse audiences are engaged.
Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

Japan America Society / Japan Society Capacity Building Grant Program

Japan Foundation, New York
Private
United States
Up to US $30,000
The Japan America Society / Japan Society Capacity Building Grant Program supports grassroots initiatives aimed at enhancing mutual understanding between the U.S. and Japan. With grant amounts up to $30,000 for 12 months, eligible organizations can apply for projects in fundraising, strategic planning, public relations, and more. The program prioritizes projects that foster collaboration and demonstrate sustainability, ensuring a lasting positive impact on communities.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage

Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (343875)

National Science Foundation (NSF)
Federal Government
United States
Up to US $202,000
The Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (AGS-PRF) support early career researchers conducting independent studies in diverse areas such as Atmospheric Chemistry and Space Weather Research. These fellowships, lasting up to 24 months, aim to enhance the research capabilities of promising individuals while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and leadership within the scientific community. AGS encourages applications from diverse backgrounds to promote inclusivity and equity in geoscience.
Atmospheric Sciences Geomorphology Geophysics +2 more

Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Kentucky grants for nonprofits provide funding to support public health, education, and rural development projects. The following grants help organizations address state-specific challenges, promote equity, and improve the quality of life across Kentucky.


Search Instrumentl's Kentucky Grants Database


Explore 136 funding opportunities for nonprofits in Kentucky, with $57.7M in resources. Instrumentl streamlines the funding search with deadline notifications, customized filtering, and key insights to support impactful initiatives throughout Kentucky.

Grant Insights : Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

100+ Kentucky grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

30 Kentucky grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

21 Kentucky grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

22 Kentucky grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

100+ Kentucky grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Human & Social Services

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Kentucky grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
33.9%
Q2
21.2%
Q3
23.7%
Q4
21.2%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $8,000.

$500 $500 Min.
$8,000 $8 K Median
$711,767 $711.8 K Average
$40,331,313 $40.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

A wide variety of funding sources for nonprofits are available in Kentucky. Over 100+ individual grants, totaling $57,653,111, are available. If you’re interested in applying for grant funding in Kentucky, know that the median grant size is $8,000. Grants for nonprofits in Kentucky provide funding to support areas like public health, education, and rural development initiatives.

In Kentucky, grants come from all different types of funders, including private foundations, federal government agencies, and corporations. Here’s a breakdown of where you’ll find available grants in Kentucky:

  • Private Foundations: Private foundations in Kentucky fund 81 grant opportunities. When filtering for these grants, you'll see that many focus on education, arts and culture, and more.
  • Federal Government Agencies: There are 14 grants available in Kentucky through federal government agencies. Many of these funding opportunities focus on initiatives like agriculture, rural development, and health care.
  • Corporations: There is a moderate amount of grants from corporations available in Kentucky. The 16 grants available focus on food access and hunger, community services, and more.

Whether you go after government grants or foundation grants depends on your grant readiness. Keep in mind that government grants often have large awards but equally large compliance requirements.

Based on the data we have now, the best time to apply for grants in Kentucky is in Q1, which is when 33.9% of grant deadlines fall. Of the available grants, 23.7% of deadlines fall in Q3 and 21.2% fall in Q2. Comparatively, Q4 is the grant period with the least activity, as only 21.2% of deadlines fall within this timeframe. To maximize your odds of receiving funding, be aware of the peak fundraising periods.

The nonprofit funding landscape throughout Kentucky has shown large activity across the past several years. Based on the funding reports sent to the IRS, overall grant funding reached up to ~$1.7 billion in 2021 and increased to ~$1.8 billion in 2022, a growth of nearly 6%. Among all of the grants awarded in Kentucky during this time, the most popular focus areas for funding were single-organization support from professional societies and associations and alliance/advocacy organizations. Likewise, the top counties receiving the most funding were Jefferson County, Kenton County, and Fayette County.

If you want to start finding more grants, Instrumentl simplifies the entire grant process. You can find grants within Kentucky for your nonprofit while also researching funders, managing deadlines, and keeping on top of everything in our all-in-one platform.

With Instrumentl, you'll get access to over 20,000 live grants and 400,000 funders beyond what you see here in Kentucky. Learn more about Instrumentl's platform.

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